Curry Bowl

It’s a small, lively corner filled with the aromas of toasted spices, the sounds of an open kitchen and a constant flow of people that create an atmosphere reminiscent of Asian street markets, translated into a Zagreb setting.

The story begins with two brothers who, while traveling across Europe, fell in love with Zagreb and decided to bring the best of Sri Lanka to the heart of Croatia. Their philosophy is simple: good food, good vibes. The team that cooks and serves the dishes truly loves what they do and you can feel it in every plate and every smile that comes with it.

What’s on the menu?

Food here is eaten quickly and spontaneously. The selection is surprisingly wide for such a compact space. The menu features curries, kottu, stir-fry combinations, seafood dishes, vegetarian options and several Asian classics that have, over time, become the restaurant’s signature. It’s diverse enough to satisfy guests who prefer safe choices, as well as those eager to explore Sri Lankan flavors. The space is simple, relaxed and always in motion. The open kitchen gives the whole place a special rhythm – chopping sounds, the aroma of curry paste, steam rising from woks and the constant mixing of ingredients create an atmosphere that is both chaotic and inviting. The outdoor section, with wooden tables and yellow chairs under a beige awning, blends seamlessly with the street life of Tkalčićeva.

Service is friendly and fast, well accustomed to constant waves of guests, as well as to those entering the world of Sri Lankan cuisine for the first time and needing a brief explanation of what’s what and how spicy it is. The staff is patient, warm and always ready to recommend a dish that best suits your taste.

What did our chefs try?

Our table opted for lentil fritters, chicken curry and their signature beef kottu. Three dishes, three different approaches, but the same philosophy: the warmth of spices, layered flavors and portions that are honest, substantial and unpretentious. Parippu Wadai are lentil fritters made with lentils, onion, coconut, sweet pepper and cumin, served with a house-made mint chutney, an ideal start to this Sri Lankan adventure. The chicken curry showcased the full depth of flavor, made with deboned chicken thigh prepared in a traditional Sri Lankan style and served with grated coconut mixed with spices. We couldn’t resist trying the beef kottu as well – a distinctive street-food dish typical of Sri Lanka, made from a mix of spices, egg and house-made roti flatbread.

Curry Bowl is a place that builds its story around distinctive flavors, making it ideal for a spontaneous lunch, a quick dinner, a break between errands or moments when you’re craving something intense, aromatic and different in the city center. It’s a small gastronomic escape from the usual flavors. An extra plus is that the entire menu is also available for delivery, making it even more accessible on days when you want exotic tastes without leaving home. Always aromatic, always colorful, always full of guests – this little Sri Lankan island in the heart of Zagreb has found its audience among locals and tourists alike.